With satellite connectivity, smartphones can send and receive information via low-orbit satellites while avoiding mobile network coverage and making emergency calls. When a user is missing or in danger, this function can help them get rescue or medical help.
Back in 2022, Samsung was reported to have tested satellite communication on its Galaxy S22 series. Since then, the Korean mobile giant has been linked to satellite connectivity with phones for emergency calling and messaging, similar to the current iPhone 14.
Without any doubt, the mobile industry expected it to come to this year’s Galaxy S23 series, but unfortunately, the devices lack satellite connectivity for emergency services. However, it seems Samsung is about to make it happen, as Korea’s Minister confirmed it is coming next year.
Satellite Connectivity is Coming to Smartphones Next Year: Korea’s Minister
Lee Jong-ho, Korea’s Minister of Science and ICT hinted at a potential commercialization of satellite communication services by domestic smartphone brands in a recent interview with Yonhap News. According to him, Korean domestic industries are expected to launch a service that brings data transmission between 5G phones and satellites next year.
In his words: “I cannot say for sure, but I know that the domestic industry is considering commercializing the service next year, expecting that a standard related to satellite communication will be prepared next year.”
Hence, considering Samsung is the only big smartphone brand in South Korea, it is widely understood that Samsung could bring satellite connectivity to its phones next year – the Galaxy S24. Additionally, owing to its 2022 testing on the Galaxy S22 series.
Why Galaxy S24 is Likely to Support Satellite Connectivity
Samsung’s high-end phones this year can link to LEO satellites for emergency calling and messaging services thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. Satellite connectivity is absent from the Galaxy S23, Galaxy Z Flip 5, and Galaxy Z Fold 5. Samsung indicated earlier this year that it will wait until the ecosystem for satellite communication has improved before introducing the new function.
Meanwhile, the brand reportedly collaborates with Iridium Communications, which operates a constellation of low-earth orbit satellites for emergency communications. The Galaxy S24 is anticipated to be released by the firm in the first quarter of the following year. Two variations of the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra are anticipated: one with the Exynos 2400 processor and the other with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip.
Even the Exynos 2400 must have the functionality activated on the hardware level if the Galaxy S24 receives satellite connectivity. With Exynos chips in mind, Samsung created two-way satellite communication, which could be used in the Galaxy S24. In the Android ecosystem, only Huawei phones currently feature satellite connectivity.
